‘Don’t stand in front of bulldozers’, pleads local councillor

Orakei Councillor Cameron Brewer is pleading to outraged St Heliers residents not to stand in front of the bulldozers that are set to demolish the Turua Street art deco houses and face possible police arrest.

“The residents have fought a valiant fight and I was pleased to support them. However Tuesday’s urgent meeting with the developer marked the end of road. I encourage people to now focus on saving other local heritage buildings by ensuring they have adequate legal protection, so this doesn’t happen again,” says Cameron Brewer.

“Standing up to the bulldozers makes a good point but it’s not going to save the houses. It would be sad if the police were forced to become involved. I’m also perturbed to hear some say they will boycott the businesses in the new development.

“We’ve got to now focus on the future and work to get the best out of the new development. It’s abundantly clear now that St Heliers’ values its heritage and future plans have to reflect that. The new council also has to develop processes and policies that enable greater engagement with local communities,” says Cameron Brewer.

Mr Brewer says as an independent councillor he is pleased to have been able to reflect the community’s strong view on Turua Street. He found the Save Turua Street group a free planning lawyer, fronted up to the large public meeting, sought council advice, involved the Mayor’s Office and the Council Chair of Heritage, and organised the last ditch meeting with the developer’s team yesterday.

ENDS

© Scoop Media